FlyDubai Captain Recounts Mid-Air Attack by Co-Pilot

Captain Smith Machar of a FlyDubai flight has detailed the harrowing moments before his aircraft entered a sharp dive, describing an assault by his co-pilot. Machar recounted that shortly before the attack, First Officer Hamam al-Khamami began praying, which Machar initially did not find suspicious due to regional customs. However, several minutes later, al-Khamami struck Machar from behind multiple times. Machar, injured and with impaired vision, realized he was being attacked by his co-pilot as the plane began to descend rapidly. He attempted to reach the cockpit door, but al-Khamami prevented him from opening it, while other crew members outside tried to use the access code. Machar managed to reach the door's internal mechanism and open it, allowing the crew to enter, subdue the attacker, and regain control of the aircraft. Machar described this as his last chance to save himself and the passengers, noting the potentially catastrophic consequences had he failed.

Machar shared his account during a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu thanked the captain for his actions and expressed a desire to host him in Israel, even suggesting an invitation to participate in the Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony as a high honor. Previously, "Cursor" had reported new details about the FlyDubai crew.